This lightweight rifle functions on the same principle as our other plasma weapon concepts - a jet of ionized gas discharged through a focused magnetic field. The lightweight frame greatly improves the overall accuracy of the weapon.
When combined with a S.C.O.P.E., this weapon can be fantastic for a build focused on concentrated fire.
By mid-game, this is probably the best weapon to arm your Rookies with as the Aim bonus is very helpful. Even in the hands of your veteran troopers, the Aim bonus essentially gives them a free S.C.O.P.E. without equipping it, and gives even more bonus if they have one.
The lower damage isn't as important against weaker enemies, and having a majority of troops equipped with it gives a higher chance of eradicating more trivial enemies.